Catalysts for Lower Temperature cure of Melamine Crosslinked OEM Coatings

 
A new class of acid catalysts has been developed that promotes the cross linking reaction of hydroxyl functional polymers with amino-formaldehyde cross linking agents such as hexamethoxymethyl melamine, especially in OEM coatings. These catalysts are very effective in coating formulations at temperatures below the conventional cure schedules. Cure schedules as low as 1100C, with cure times of 20 minutes can be realized with these catalysts, resulting in potential savings in energy costs and increased throughput. This low cure temperature capability enables the use of these novel catalysts in coatings for heat sensitive substrates such as wood and plastics. In addition these catalysts provide storage-stable one component coatings with superior gloss retention, and exceptional water resistance and durability.